Last week, the University of Oxford advised staff to ditch everyday expressions such as “learn the ropes” and “find your feet”, warning they could confuse international students.
Like St Andrews, the university’s official style guide recommends replacing familiar phrases with simpler alternatives, as part of its guidance on inclusive language and clear written communication.
The advice also cautions against using the word “blindspots”, and suggests using “gaps in knowledge” instead.
Staff are encouraged to replace gender-specific terms such as “spokesman”, “chairwoman” and “mankind” with “spokesperson”, “chair” and “humankind”, respectively.
GB News has approached the University of St Andrews for comment.
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